April 30th, 2013

Parashas Tetzaveh/Zachor/Purim

Purim is finally here!  This year we get to be in the swing of things even earlier, because Shabbos goes straight into Purim. Enjoy!

One of my teachers, Rabbi Yosef Lipson of the New England Rabbinical College, shared a thought about Purim which I found very helpful as I prepare myself for this holiday.  Purim begs the question, Why?  Why are the activities, while enjoyable, considered sacred?  What is the goal that we are striving for?  In fact, some of the activities of Purim seem contrary to values often taught.

Rabbi Lipson shared that what we are striving for is to get in touch with the essence of who we are and what we stand for. Yes, outer trappings and behavior are important and profoundly influence us, but in reality what we believe in is what truly defines us.  There are so many activities and events where the sole difference between what is good and what is not is simply our motivation.

This is what we are striving to show on Purim. Once a year, we are trying to demonstrate that regardless of the outer trappings, we remain the same inside - someone trying to do good and be close to his Creator.  This is something to think about as Purim is almost upon us.

Enjoy, celebrate, get inspired and may we all have a very happy and joyous Purim!

Good Shabbos